What is the best budget-friendly router with 1 GB Ethernet for under $150?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a budget-friendly router with 1 GB Ethernet capabilities, specifically within the price range of $100 to $150. Participants share their experiences and suggestions regarding various router models and brands, focusing on both performance and reliability.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a need for a new router, indicating a preference for 1 GB Ethernet without requiring advanced features.
  • Another participant suggests ordering the same model previously used, noting its availability online at a lower price.
  • A participant considers upgrading after more than 10 years of using the same router, indicating openness to new options.
  • Netgear is mentioned as a reliable brand, with one participant recommending the WNDR3700 model based on past experiences and feedback from network professionals.
  • Concerns about firmware updates are raised, with advice to upgrade as soon as the router is set up to avoid potential issues with older stock.
  • A later participant shares their positive experience with the Netgear R6400, highlighting the benefits of both 1 GB Ethernet and dual-band capabilities.
  • There is mention of considering a used WRT55GL as a backup option, indicating a strategy for future-proofing.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the reliability of Netgear routers, but there are multiple suggestions for different models and approaches, indicating that no consensus exists on a single best option.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the specific features needed for their situations, and there are varying opinions on the necessity of upgrading from older models.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals looking for budget-friendly router options, particularly those interested in upgrading to 1 GB Ethernet and dual-band capabilities.

Borek
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So, I need a new router. I don't need anything more fancy than the old one, perhaps 1 GB Ethernet would be a welcomed addition. As you may guess from the one I used up to today I am not entirely up to date with the newest gear. Any suggestions?

(and we are talking about $100-150 at most)
 
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Borek said:
So, I need a new router. I don't need anything more fancy than the old one, perhaps 1 GB Ethernet would be a welcomed addition. As you may guess from the one I used up to today I am not entirely up to date with the newest gear. Any suggestions?

(and we are talking about $100-150 at most)
I guess if you liked it, you could order the same exact thing. I searched online and it ranges from $50 to $90, but it'd be a few days before you get it, it looks like.
Just a thought.
 
Yes, they are still available and buying it for the second time it is an option that I consider quite seriously :smile: But after well over 10 years I have nothing against a small upgrade, especially when I already HAVE to buy something.
 
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Borek said:
So, I need a new router. I don't need anything more fancy than the old one, perhaps 1 GB Ethernet would be a welcomed addition.
As @dlgoff mentioned, Netgear is worth looking at. A few years ago when I had to replace my router, I asked a few network folks I know and the consensus was Netgear had the fewest problems. I settled on model WNDR3700 (Ver.2, they are now up to Ver.4) which also meets your stated wish-list (Gigabit, Wireless, cost).

The wireless antenna(s) is built-in and adequate for medium house/large apartment. If you need maximum wireless range you would be better off with a model with multiple external antennae.

Whichever one you get, be sure to upgrade the firmware as soon as you get on line. The seller may be shipping old stock (read 'buggy'). As with any software, never buy version 1.

p.s. Just checked Netgear website. The WNDR3700 specs show System Requirements only up to Win8; plus Mac, Linux, UNIX
 
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So, Netgear R6400 it is, already up and running. After some reading I decided it is not just upgrade to 1 GB Ethernet that makes sense, also ac is a good idea, as it is quite popular in the mobile devices. Turned out I was right, the moment I plugged the router in several of the devices I have at home happily connected using 5 GHz band.

Thanks for all suggestions. I still think about buying used WRT55GL for peanuts and keeping it stored and configured, just in case.
 
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